Flotation machine

Overview
Able to produce high-grade concentrates to meet final product specifications, FLS column flotation cells are ideal in cleaner applications, complementing mechanical cells and improving overall flotation performance. They are also effective for reverse flotation of insoluble silicas from iron ores.

Key benefits

• Enhanced fines recovery — large height-to-diameter ratio provides a large collection zone and improved collision and attachment rates aided by venturi-style inline sparging for high intensity contacting.
• High-grade concentration — deep froth depths and froth washing enable effective washing and cleaning of the concentrate prior to recovery, allowing high upgrading and high-grade overflow into concentrate launders.
• Easy sparging system maintenance — sparging system (including recirculation pump and spargers) is externally mounted, eliminating the need to enter the tank; optional sparger isolation valves allow sparger service while online.
• Low CAPEX and short installation time — modular, containerised construction minimises engineering, simplifies logistics, shortens delivery times, and reduces onsite fabrication costs and safety risks.

Features and operation

• Venturi-style inline sparging system: air is sheared into the slurry under dynamic pressure changes to deliver high-intensity bubble–particle contacting, improving collision and attachment rates compared to traditional jet-nozzle spargers.
• Large height-to-diameter ratio provides an extended collection zone and deeper froth for effective washing/cleaning.
• Froth washing capability using wash water to improve concentrate grade.
• Externally mounted sparging system and optional isolation valves for simplified maintenance and reduced downtime.
• Modular construction with containerised components to simplify logistics, reduce onsite fabrication and cut installation time.

Smart and monitoring options

• Froth cameras — provide clear image and analysis of froth movement over the launder to improve control of the flotation circuit.
• Smart flotation package — automated recovery adjustments using algorithms that integrate froth cameras and online sample analysers to optimise recovery rate.

Sustainability & performance advantages

• Energy efficiency — innovative sparger design maximises contact with minimal energy input, extending wet-end life and reducing power consumption.
• Safety — externally mounted sparging and modular construction simplify maintenance and logistics, reducing safety risks on site.
• Circularity — highly wear-resistant spargers and durable components increase material efficiency and service life.
• Reduced logistics emissions — modular, containerised components simplify delivery and onsite assembly, lowering logistics-related emissions.

Services and testing support
The FLS Minerals Testing and Research Centre supports optimisation of flotation systems by determining optimal sizing, configuration and operating practices for flotation circuits. Operating flotation cells are supported by a global network of service centres that provide lifecycle technical assistance, equipment inspections, maintenance supervision and tailored training. Spare and wear parts are available to maintain long-term flotation cell performance.

Technical specifications

• Typical application: cleaner-stage flotation, high-grade concentrate production, and reverse flotation of insoluble silicas from iron ores.
• Sparging system: venturi-style inline sparging (high-intensity contacting); externally mounted recirculation pump and spargers; optional sparger isolation valves for online servicing.
• Froth control & monitoring: froth cameras and smart flotation package options (automatic recovery adjustment using froth imaging and online analysis).
• Construction: modular, containerisable components for simplified logistics and reduced onsite fabrication.
• Cross-sectional area range: from 0.79 m2 up to 28.27 m2.
• Operating volume range: from 2.5 m3 up to 472.5 m3.
• Benefits: enhanced fines recovery, deep stable froth for effective washing, reduced CAPEX and installation time, improved energy efficiency and lower logistics-related emissions.